I’m a dog expert & there’s several breeds I’d never own – including the pooch that’ll rack up mega expensive vet bills
THE decision to welcome a dog into your family is a huge one to make - after all, there are a whole host of different factors you need to consider.
But according to Yasmin El-Saie, who is a holistic dog expert from London, there are several breeds she'd never recommend - and with good reason.
Speaking exclusively to Fabulous Digital, the dog whizz, who lives in London with her two Chihuahuas Chilli and Sukhi, but grew up in the country with two German Shepherds, reveals the breeds which rack up the highest vet bills and those that flat owners should steer clear of.
Border Collies, Golden Retrievers & Huskies
According to the dog expert, breeds such as the Golden Retriever and Husky require a lot more exercise than others.
"I would not recommend these breeds for anyone living in a small flat in a city or for anyone who doesn’t have a lot of time and energy for walking and exercising their dogs," she says.
Although gorgeous, these dog breeds are prone to breathing issues, which can also put additional strain on their hearts
Yasmin El-Saie
However, the dog expert goes on to note that toy breeds are great for city living because they can be "easily transported around."
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Brachycephalic breeds
Next up on her list of breeds she's never get include brachycephalic breeds, which she explains refers to any short nosed or flat-faced dogs.
For example, these can include French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Shihtzus, Boxers, Pugs and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
According to the dog guru, such breeds may end up costing you a small fortune in vet bills due to their common health issues.
"Although gorgeous, these dog breeds are prone to breathing issues, which can also put additional strain on their hearts," she explains.
Poodles or breeds with long coats
Next, Yasmin points out that different types of fur require either more or less grooming.
"A Poodle for example gets knotted fur if it's not brushed daily and then needs to be shaved to relieve the dog of its matted condition," she explains.
"Imagine coming home from a muddy walk in the park. Any long coat breed will need some serious bathing or part bathing, brushing and drying."
In comparison, she points out that a short coat breed like a smooth coat Chihuahua can easily be wiped with a damp cloth.
"If you have a long haired breed you also need to consider budgeting for regular trips to a groomer," she says.
Dachshunds
While she says that Daschunds are an "adorable breed," Yasmin warns they are also susceptible to spinal and neurological problems that may need surgery to put right.
"This breed’s long body and short legs mean there are more prone to developing Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), which causes them issues with their ability to walk," she says.
Great Danes
And last but not least, Yasmin urges people to think twice about any large breeds - adding that "finances matter," especially in this day and age.
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She continues: "We all know you are what you eat. It’s no different for your dog.
"If you want to provide your dog with fresh meat and high quality food the cost will be a lot more for a large dog (example Great Dane around 60kg) in comparison to a Pomerian (5kg), something to consider in the cost of living crisis."
Vet Dr. Rachel Siu reveals the 5 dogs she'd never own
By Marsha O'Mahony
HUSKY
Beautiful, intelligent, and super-active, like a Border Collie, a Husky is a working dog and likes to keep busy.
If you lead a sedentary life, then this guy is not for you, and you are not for him.
It should be no surprise that Huskies love the cold - look at that coat of fur. So, living in 110 degrees in Texas is pretty grim for these dogs.
DACHSHUND
Adorable, cute, funny, and they can be very expensive.
The basic physiology of these sausage dogs does them no favours. "Because of their long backs, they’re really prone to intervertebral disc disease," said Dr. Rachel.
You would be wise to keep a pot of money aside just in case because back surgery is likely to be expensive.
GREAT DANE
These lolloping, loving, and gregarious dogs are "goofballs."
But they have short lifespans, developing health issues early on in life. Prepare yourself for heartbreak.
DOODLE
These are the current "it" dog, they are everywhere. They can be mixed with pretty much any other breed.
Their popularity has soared in recent years, with pet owners attracted to their low maintenance and hypoallergenic qualities.
But this couldn’t be further from the truth, said our vet.
"These dogs are often mixed with shedding dogs so they do shed and they also need grooming very frequently," she wrote.
Their temperament is unpredictable and she has seen some that are wonderful to work with and others who have serious behavioral problems.
BULLDOGS
These guys are adorable but they have serious respiratory problems. Genetics are not on the side of any brachycephalic dog.
"I just would not own them," she said. "They’re just not a healthy breed. They struggle to breathe with their smooshed faces."
Like the Dachshund, they also suffer from intervertebral disc disease.